Air conditioner managing console and air-conditioning system

ABSTRACT

Each of a plurality of preset groups includes indoor units, and an air conditioner managing console manages the indoor units on a group basis and includes a display unit configured to display the groups as icons and a CPU configured to control the display unit. Each group is set to be linked to one of preset small spaces into which an air-conditioning target space is divided. When the CPU receives a change command corresponding to a change in the small spaces, the CPU changes an association of the indoor units associated with the groups in accordance with the change command, and displays the icons on the display unit with display contents based on the changed association of the indoor units.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a U.S. national stage application of PCT/JP2014/051427 filed on Jan. 23, 2014, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to an air conditioner managing console and an air-conditioning system, and relates to, for example, an air conditioner managing console and an air-conditioning system that perform a group display corresponding to a layout change with less user burden, by causing resetting of groups to be performed by a simple operation based on the contents of work.

BACKGROUND

A conventional air conditioner managing console, is known in which a plurality of management contents are linked to a single icon (see, for example, Patent Literature 1). Another conventional air conditioner managing console is known that inserts a space insertion command, a column break command, and a page break command at any position by a mouse operation (see, for example, Patent Literature 2).

PATENT LITERATURE

-   Patent Literature 1: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application     Publication No. 2001-350515 (paragraph [0048]) -   Patent Literature 2: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application     Publication No. 2004-272620 (paragraph [0020])

In the conventional air conditioner managing console as described above, one icon as a representative of a plurality of management contents is set so as to correspond to an actual layout, and an icon is regarded as displaying representative of a certain group.

In addition, the conventional air conditioner managing console as described above does not adjust a display position by causing a coordinate to be designated, but changes a display position to any position by a mouse operation, thereby adjusting the display position by a simple operation.

However, there is a problem that when a layout change is performed, the conventional air conditioner managing console cannot perform a group display corresponding to the layout change with less user burden.

SUMMARY

The present invention has been made to solve the problems as described above, and an object of the present invention is to provide an air conditioner managing console and an air-conditioning system that are able to perform a group display corresponding to a layout change with less user burden.

An air conditioner managing console according to the present invention is an air conditioner managing console being configured to manage a plurality of indoor units on a group basis, each group having at least one of the indoor units, the air conditioner managing console including: a display unit operable to display a monitoring screen in which a plurality of icons each representing the group are arranged, and a controller configured to determine that one of the icons displayed on the monitoring screen is selected, and when determining that an other icon different from the one of the icons is selected subsequent to selecting the one icon, display the one icon at a position at which the other icon is displayed.

The present invention has an effect of being able to perform a group display corresponding to a layout change with less user burden, by causing resetting of the groups to be performed by a simple operation based on the contents of work.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of group setting information of an air conditioner managing console 2 in background art that is a premise of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a monitoring screen 31 of the air conditioner managing console 2 in the background art that is the premise of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a group setting change corresponding to a floor layout in the background art that is the premise of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the monitoring screen 31 of the air conditioner managing console 2 after group addition in the background art that is the premise of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the group setting change corresponding to the floor layout in the background art that is the premise of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of display of a group icon button 81 to a group icon button 85 after group resetting in the background art that is the premise of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a diagram schematically illustrating an operation principle of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of an air-conditioning system 1 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of an internal configuration of an air conditioner managing console 2 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of group division in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a diagram schematically illustrating transition of a data configuration occurring with group division in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a group division operation reception process in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a layout screen 150 a before group division in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a group division setting screen 151 in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a layout screen 150 b after group division in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a group division operation internal process in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of group setting information at the time of group addition in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of group setting information at the time of deletion of indoor unit data of a dividing group in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of group setting information at the time of registration of indoor unit data in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of group setting information at the time of re-registration of indoor unit data in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

FIG. 21 is a diagram showing an example of group setting information at the time of reallocation of group numbers in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

FIG. 22 is a diagram showing an example of group integration in Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

FIG. 23 is a diagram schematically illustrating transition of a data structure occurring with group integration in Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

FIG. 24 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a group integration operation reception process in Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

FIG. 25 is a diagram showing an example of a layout screen 150 c at the time of start of an integration operation before group integration in Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

FIG. 26 is a diagram showing an example of a layout screen 150 d at the time of selection of an integration target before group integration in Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

FIG. 27 is a diagram showing an example of a layout screen 150 e after group integration in Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

FIG. 28 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a group integration operation internal process in Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

FIG. 29 is a diagram showing an example of group setting information at the time of deletion of indoor unit data of a basic group in Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

FIG. 30 is a diagram showing an example of group setting information at the time of registration of indoor unit data of an integrated group in Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

FIG. 31 is a diagram showing an example of group setting information at the time of re-registration of indoor unit data of the integrated group in Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

FIG. 32 is a diagram showing an example of group setting information at the time of reallocation of group numbers in Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

FIG. 33 is a diagram showing an example of group rearrangement in Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

FIG. 34 is a diagram schematically illustrating transition of a data structure occurring with group rearrangement in Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

FIG. 35 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a group rearrangement operation reception process in Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

FIG. 36 is a diagram showing an example of a layout screen 150 f at the time of start of a group rearrangement operation before group rearrangement in Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

FIG. 37 is a diagram showing an example of a layout screen 150 g after group rearrangement in Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

FIG. 38 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a group rearrangement operation internal process in Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

FIG. 39 is a diagram schematically illustrating a procedure of group rearrangement in Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

FIG. 40 is a diagram showing a detailed example of positions in group rearrangement in Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

FIG. 41 is a diagram schematically illustrating an operation for rearranging a group from a current position to a left side in Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

FIG. 42 is a diagram schematically illustrating an operation for rearranging a group from a lower stage to an upper stage in Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

FIG. 43 is a diagram schematically illustrating an operation for rearranging a group from a current position to a right side in Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

FIG. 44 is a diagram schematically illustrating an operation for rearranging a group from an upper stage to a lower stage in Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

FIG. 45 is a diagram showing an example of an association between a layout screen 150 h and screen display position data in Embodiment 4 of the present invention.

FIG. 46 is a diagram showing an example of the screen display position data in Embodiment 4 of the present invention.

FIG. 47 is a diagram showing an example of a communication command for display position designation in Embodiment 4 of the present invention.

FIG. 48 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a communication process in Embodiment 4 of the present invention.

FIG. 49 is a diagram showing an example of a group number display presence/absence setting screen in Embodiment 5 of the present invention.

FIG. 50 is a diagram showing an example of a monitoring screen 32 at the time of setting absence of group number display in Embodiment 5 of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. A step of describing a program that performs operations of the embodiments includes processes that are performed time-sequentially in accordance with a described order but may include processes that are not necessarily performed time-sequentially and are performed in parallel or individually.

Each function described in the embodiments may be implemented by hardware or may be implemented by software. That is, each block diagram described in the embodiments may be considered as a block diagram of hardware or may be considered as a functional block diagram of software. For example, each block diagram may be implemented by hardware such as a circuit device or the like, or may be implemented by software executed on an arithmetic unit, such as a processor, which is not shown.

The function of each block in the block diagrams described in the embodiments only needs to be implemented, and the configuration of each block in these block diagrams may not be separated from each other. In Embodiments 1 to 5, items that are not particularly described are the same as those in Embodiments 1 to 5, and the same functions and components are described using the same reference sings. Embodiments 1 and 2 may be individually implemented or may be implemented in combination. In either case, advantageous effects described later are achieved. Various specific setting examples described in the embodiments are merely examples, and the settings are not limited thereto.

In the embodiments, a system represents an entire apparatus composed of a plurality of devices. Additionally, in the embodiments, a network means a scheme in which at least two devices are connected and information is allowed to be transmitted from a certain device to another device. The devices that communicate via the network may be independent devices, or may be internal blocks that configure a single device. Furthermore, in the embodiments, communication may obviously be wireless communication and wired communication, or may be communication in which wireless communication and wired communication are mixed. For example, wireless communication may be carried out in a certain zone, and wired communication may be carried out in another space. Moreover, communication from a certain device to another device may be carried out by wired communication, and communication from the other device to the certain device may be carried out by wireless communication.

Embodiment 1 Background Art of Embodiment 1

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of group setting information of an air conditioner managing console 2 in background art that is a premise of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, a setting information table 11 is composed of, for example, group name data, group number data, and registered unit data. A group name 60 (described later) includes, for example, a group [A], a group [B], a group [C], and a group [D]. The group number data includes, for example, a group [01], a group [02], a group [03], and a group [04]. The group name data may not be included in a component of data.

The registered unit data includes, for example, an indoor unit address [001] and an indoor unit address [002] corresponding to the group [01]. The registered unit data includes, for example, an indoor unit address [003] and an indoor unit address [004] corresponding to the group [02]. The registered unit data includes, for example, an indoor unit address [005] and an indoor unit address [006] corresponding to the group [03]. The registered unit data includes, for example, an indoor unit address [007] and an indoor unit address [008] corresponding to the group [04]. Here, each indoor unit address only needs to be intended to specify any of a plurality of indoor units 4 (described later), and any value is assumed to be set as the indoor unit address.

Next, a floor layout is assumed to be divided into a plurality of small spaces. With this assumption as a premise, the group name 60 (described later) is associated with each of the plurality of small spaces. For example, the group name 60 (described later) is set as A, B, C, and D. In addition, a group number is associated with each group. For example, a group number “01” is associated with the group A, a group number “02” is associated with the group B, a group number “03” is associated with the group C, and a group number “04” is associated with the group D.

The address of an air conditioner, for example, an indoor unit 4 (described later), is associated with each group. For example, an indoor unit address “001” and an indoor unit address “002” are associated with the group of the group number “01”. An indoor unit address “003” and an indoor unit address “004” are associated with the group of the group number “02”. An indoor unit address “005” and an indoor unit address “006” are associated with the group of the group number “03”. An indoor unit address “007” and an indoor unit address “008” are associated with the group of the group number “04”.

That is, the setting information table 11 is configured such that the air conditioners, for example, the indoor units 4 (described later) are managed on a group basis in accordance with the floor layout. Thus, the setting information table 11 is configured such that each group and the air conditioners, for example, the indoor units 4 (described later) are allocated. Specifically, the setting information table 11 is configured such that the addresses of the air conditioners, for example, the indoor units 4 (described later) are allocated to each group on a group basis of group numbers 70 (described later).

The setting information table 11 as described above is configured, for example, on a screen of the air conditioner managing console 2 described later. For example, when the air conditioner managing console 2 described later shifts to an initial setting mode, the air conditioner managing console 2 may display the setting information table 11 on an initial setting screen. The addresses of the indoor units 4 (described later) to be allocated corresponding to groups required in management are set through such an initial setting screen. Here, the air conditioner managing console 2 described later is assumed to be able to manage a plurality of groups.

Meanwhile, in a building occupied by offices, various tenants, and the like, a floor layout may be changed due to change of a user or the like, and division and integration of groups or the like may occur. Thus, each time the floor layout is changed, group setting, for example, change of group formation may be performed.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of a monitoring screen 31 of the air conditioner managing console 2 in the background art that is the premise of the present invention. The monitoring screen 31 has display contents configured on the basis of the setting information table 11 described above, and operation states of groups to be managed by the air conditioner managing console 2 described later are reflected in the display contents.

The monitoring screen 31 includes, for example, a grid screen button 41, a list screen button 42, a group screen button 43, and a main menu screen button 44 at the upper side thereof, and a current time 51 is displayed thereon. The monitoring screen 31 includes, for example, a group name 61 to a group name 65, a group number 71 to a group number 75, and a group icon button 81 to a group icon button 85 at the center thereof. The monitoring screen 31 includes, for example, a selection operation panel access button 101, a zoom-out/zoom-in button 102, a left triangle button 103, a current page number 104, a right triangle button 105, a select-all button 106, and an operation button 107 at the lower side thereof.

For example, a heating mode display sign 91 is displayed in the group icon button 81. For example, a heating mode display sign 91 and a check mark 93 are displayed in the group icon button 83. For example, a filter replacement sign 92 is displayed in the group icon button 84. For example, a filter replacement sign 92 is displayed in the group icon button 85.

When the group name 61 to the group name 65 are not particularly distinguished from each other, the group name 61 to the group name 65 are referred to as the group name 60 or group names 60. When the group number 71 to the group number 75 are not particularly distinguished from each other, the group number 71 to the group number 75 are referred to as the group number 70 or group numbers 70. When the group icon button 81 to the group icon button 85 are not particularly distinguished from each other, the group icon button 81 to the group icon button 85 are referred to as the group icon button 80 or group icon buttons 80. Here, the group name 60, the group number 70, and the group icon button 80 are displayed so as to be associated with each other.

Here, as shown in FIG. 2, groups to be managed are displayed as icons on the monitoring screen 31. Such icons are configured, for example, as the group icon button 81 to the group icon button 85 described above.

The group number 70 (described later) is displayed in each group icon button 80, and the group icon buttons 80 are displayed so as to be aligned in order of the group numbers, for example, in ascending order of the group numbers. In each group icon button 80, the operation state of the indoor unit 4 (described later), for example, any of an operation state, a stop state, an abnormal state, and the like thereof may be displayed. Each group icon button 80 is configured, for example, as a button that issues an operation command to either operate or stop the indoor units 4, and when an operation such as pressing is performed on the group icon button 80, the operation state or the like of the corresponding group is changed.

Meanwhile, when a floor layout is changed, resetting of the groups is required, and a great workload is taken for such resetting of the groups. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a group setting change corresponding to a floor layout in the background art that is the premise of the present invention. FIG. 3 shows an example in which the setting information table 11 described above transitions from a state 111 before setting change to a state 112 during setting change.

For example, it is assumed that a floor is divided into small spaces of a floor A, a floor B, a floor C, and a floor D and then the floor A is divided into a floor A and a floor E. Here, it is assumed that in the state 111 before setting change, among the floor layout, the floor A corresponds to the group [A], the floor B corresponds to the group [B], the floor C corresponds to the group [C], and the floor D corresponds to the group [D]. In addition, it is assumed that in the state 112 during setting change, among the floor layout, the floor A corresponds to the group [A], the floor B corresponds to the group [B], the floor C corresponds to the group [C], the floor D corresponds to the group [D], and the floor E corresponds to a group [E].

Specifically, initially, a group to be added by division is set. For example, a group [05] is newly added as a management target group for the floor E. The indoor unit address [002] registered in the floor A is registered therein. Next, the indoor unit address [002] registered in the group [01] as a management target group for the floor A is deleted, and the work is completed. The result will be described with reference to FIG. 4.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the monitoring screen 31 of the air conditioner managing console 2 after group addition in the background art that is the premise of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 4, in comparison with a display screen 121 before setting change, the groups are displayed on the display screen 122 during setting change so as to be aligned in order of the group numbers 70, for example, in ascending order of the group numbers 70, but rearrangement has not been executed. Thus, the group icon button 81 corresponding to the floor A and the group icon button 85 corresponding to the floor E are displayed at positions away from each other.

Thus, to match the actual layout, the display position of the group icon button 85 corresponding to the floor E needs to be changed to a position adjacent to the right of the group icon button 81 corresponding to the floor A. Specifically, a configuration change example will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the group setting change corresponding to the floor layout in the background art that is the premise of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of display of the group icon button 81 to the group icon button 85 after group resetting in the background art that is the premise of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 5, the state transitions from the state 112 during setting change to a state 113 after setting change. Specifically, the indoor unit address [002] is registered in the group [02] corresponding to the floor E. Next, the group number 70 corresponding to the floor B is shifted by one, that is, incremented by one, as compared to the current group number 70, and is reset as the group [03], and the indoor unit address [003] and the indoor unit address [004] are re-registered therein. Next, the group number 70 corresponding to the floor C is shifted by one, that is, incremented by one, as compared to the current group number 70, and is reset as the group [04], and the indoor unit address [005] and the indoor unit address [006] are re-registered therein. Next, the group number 70 corresponding to the floor D is shifted by one, that is, incremented by one, as compared to the current group number 70, and is reset as the group [05], and the indoor unit address [007] and the indoor unit address [008] are re-registered therein. The change as described above is performed, for example, by a person in charge of work.

When a floor partition is changed, for example, the floor partition is deleted to integrate the floors, a group to be integrated may be deleted, and an indoor unit address registered in the deleted group may be additionally registered in a group that is an integration destination. In this case as well, each group number 70 after the deleted group needs to be shifted by one to reset the groups.

Thus, to perform division and integration or the like of the group and to implement a group display corresponding to the floor layout, resetting of the groups is needed, but a great deal of workload is generated. For example, even if the number of groups corresponding to action of any one of the division and the integration of the group is one, resetting of the groups that do not correspond to any one of the division and the integration of the group is needed, so that a great deal of workload is generated.

Normally, such a group setting is not disclosed to an end user, and is made by a managing person, a constructor, and a maintenance company. Thus, to perform a group setting, necessity of requesting each company arises, so that this costs the end user. In addition, even when either one of division and integration of the group is executed and the groups are displayed in a sequence corresponding to the floor layout, as shown in FIG. 6, the group icon button 81 to the group icon button 85 are displayed on a display screen 123 after setting change, in the same sequence as in the display screen 121 before setting change as described above, and thus are not displayed such that a work result and a change in management scale are recognized at a glance.

Due to the above description, when the groups are reset in accordance with a change of the floor layout, many processes are required to the person in charge of work, and the groups are difficult to intuitively understand even after the resetting of the groups. Thus, a change of the display of the groups needs to be executed easily and a result of the change of the display of the groups needs to be recognized easily. In addition, when rearrangement of the group icon buttons 80 is executed corresponding to the change of the floor layout, a load of resetting of the groups is reduced.

Thus, the following configuration is desirable: a process, with less user burden, of division and integration of the group is executed when the resetting of the groups is executed corresponding to the floor layout; the display of the groups is rearranged at the time of dividing the group; and a result of the operations is reflected clearly in the display screen. With such a configuration, the groups corresponding to the layout change are displayed even with less user burden and without much cost. When a group display corresponding to the floor layout is executed, it is possible to prevent an end user or the like from making a false operation or misrecognition of the groups. Next, specific examples of such the configuration will be sequentially described.

(Operation Principle of Embodiment 1)

FIG. 7 is a diagram schematically illustrating an operation principle of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 7, an association setting processing unit 135 generates display contents data on the basis of setting target data supplied from setting state retention data 131 in response to an operation target selection command and a change contents command supplied from change contents data 133 in response to a change contents selection command.

The setting state retention data 131 has a data configuration in which, for example, the group name 60, the group number 70, a registration target apparatus, and the address of the registration target apparatus are linked to each other. The change contents data 133 has a data configuration including, for example, division process data, integration process data, and rearrangement process data. The association setting processing unit 135 causes resetting of groups to be performed by a simple operation according to the contents of work. This resetting is achieved by generating display contents data corresponding to the display contents of the group icon buttons 80, by using operation target data corresponding to the operation target selection command and the change contents corresponding to the change contents selection command, from among data related to a plurality of the group icon buttons 80. As a result, a group display corresponding to a layout change is executed with less user burden. The operation principle described above is an example, and the operation principle of the present invention is not limited thereto. Further specific examples will be sequentially described later.

(Configuration of Embodiment 1)

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of a schematic configuration of an air-conditioning system 1 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 8, the air-conditioning system 1 includes an air conditioner managing console 2 a, an air conditioner managing console 2 b, an outdoor unit 3 a to an outdoor unit 3 d, and an indoor unit 4 a to an indoor unit 4 h. A uniquely identified address is set for each of the air conditioner managing console 2 a, the air conditioner managing console 2 b, the outdoor unit 3 a to the outdoor unit 3 d, and the indoor unit 4 a to the indoor unit 4 h.

For example, as described above, the indoor unit address [001] is set for the indoor unit 4 a, the indoor unit address [002] is set for the indoor unit 4 b, the indoor unit address [003] is set for the indoor unit 4 c, the indoor unit address [004] is set for the indoor unit 4 d, the indoor unit address [005] is set for the indoor unit 4 e, the indoor unit address [006] is set for the indoor unit 4 f, the indoor unit address [007] is set for the indoor unit 4 g, and the indoor unit address [008] is set for the indoor unit 4 h.

Various signals are transmitted and received via communication transmission lines 6 by each of the air conditioner managing console 2 a, the air conditioner managing console 2 b, the outdoor unit 3 a to the outdoor unit 3 d, and the indoor unit 4 a to the indoor unit 4 h. A case is assumed in which the communication transmission lines 6 are wired, but the form of the communication transmission lines 6 is not particularly limited thereto. For example, the communication transmission lines 6 may be wireless. That is, the communication transmission lines 6 only need to be communication media.

The indoor unit 4 a, the indoor unit 4 b, and the outdoor unit 3 a are connected to each other by refrigerant pipes, which are not shown, thereby forming a refrigerant circuit, for example, configuring a first air-conditioning apparatus. The indoor unit 4 c, the indoor unit 4 d, and the outdoor unit 3 b are connected to each other by refrigerant pipes, which are not shown, thereby forming a refrigerant circuit, for example, configuring a second air-conditioning apparatus. The indoor unit 4 e, the indoor unit 4 f, and the outdoor unit 3 c are connected to each other by refrigerant pipes, which are not shown, thereby forming a refrigerant circuit, for example, configuring a third air-conditioning apparatus. The indoor unit 4 g, the indoor unit 4 h, and the outdoor unit 3 d are connected to each other by refrigerant pipes, which are not shown, thereby forming a refrigerant circuit, for example, configuring a fourth air-conditioning apparatus.

For the first air-conditioning apparatus, for example, the group [01] is set. For the second air-conditioning apparatus, for example, the group [02] is set. For the third air-conditioning apparatus, for example, the group [03] is set. For the fourth air-conditioning apparatus, for example, the group [04] is set.

The air conditioner managing console 2 a is configured, for example, as a host apparatus in the air-conditioning system 1. Meanwhile, the air conditioner managing console 2 b is configured, for example, as a subordinate apparatus in the air-conditioning system 1. The air conditioner managing console 2 a manages operation of the air conditioner managing console 2 b, operation of the first air-conditioning apparatus, operation of the second air-conditioning apparatus, operation of the third air-conditioning apparatus, and operation of the fourth air-conditioning apparatus. The air conditioner managing console 2 b manages operation of the first air-conditioning apparatus, operation of the second air-conditioning apparatus, operation of the third air-conditioning apparatus, and operation of the fourth air-conditioning apparatus.

Thus, operation states of the respective indoor unit 4 a to indoor unit 4 h and operation states of the respective outdoor unit 3 a to outdoor unit 3 d are settable by either one of the air conditioner managing console 2 a and the air conditioner managing console 2 b.

The group setting information concerning the group [01] to the group [04] as described above is set, for example, by the air conditioner managing console 2 a, which is the host apparatus, and a setting result is transmitted via the communication transmission line 6 to the air conditioner managing console 2 b, which is the subordinate apparatus. As a result, the air conditioner managing console 2 b, which is the subordinate apparatus, displays the group setting information received from the host apparatus, as groups to be managed by the air conditioner managing console 2 b.

When the air conditioner managing console 2 a and the air conditioner managing console 2 b are not particularly distinguished from each other, the air conditioner managing console 2 a and the air conditioner managing console 2 b are referred to as the air conditioner managing console 2 or air conditioner managing consoles 2. In addition, the outdoor unit 3 a to the outdoor unit 3 d are not particularly distinguished from each other, the outdoor unit 3 a to the outdoor unit 3 d are referred to as the outdoor unit 3 or outdoor units 3. Moreover, when the indoor unit 4 a to the indoor unit 4 h are not particularly distinguished from each other, the indoor unit 4 a to the indoor unit 4 h are referred to as the indoor unit 4 or indoor units 4. Next, the air conditioner managing console 2 will be described in detail.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of an internal configuration of the air conditioner managing console 2 according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 9, the air conditioner managing console 2 includes a touch panel display 12, a transmitting/receiving circuit 13, a memory 14, a nonvolatile memory 15, and a CPU (central processing unit) 16. The touch panel display 12 includes, for example, an operation input unit 21 and a display unit 22.

The operation input unit 21 is one of machine interfaces that receives a user operation of the person in charge of work or the like and supplies an operation result to the CPU 16. The display unit 22 is one of machine interfaces that displays the operation state of the air-conditioning apparatus as described above. The transmitting/receiving circuit 13 transmits and receives various signals to and from the indoor units 4, the outdoor units 3, and the air conditioner managing console 2 other than the self-apparatus, via the communication transmission lines 6. The memory 14 has stored in advance a program for performing function control. The nonvolatile memory 15 stores setting contents in a nonvolatile state, and stores, for example, group setting information including information concerning the group number 70 and the registered unit. The CPU 16 manages execution of function control and performs overall control of the transmitting/receiving circuit 13, the indoor units 4, the outdoor units 3, and the air conditioner managing console 2 other than the self-apparatus.

The above-described internal configuration of the air conditioner managing console 2 is an example, and the internal configuration of the air conditioner managing console 2 is not particularly limited thereto. In short, the air conditioner managing console 2 only needs to be configured to allow a process described later to be executed. Next, group division will be described sequentially.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of group division in Embodiment 1 of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 10, the group [01] is divided into a group [01] and a group [02], the address [001] of the indoor unit 4 is re-registered in the group [01] after the division, and the address [002] of the indoor unit 4 is re-registered in the group [02] after the division. Next, the division process will be sequentially described in detail.

(Operation of Embodiment 1)

FIG. 11 is a diagram schematically illustrating transition of a data configuration occurring with group division in Embodiment 1 of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 11, the address [002] of an indoor unit 4 linked to the group number [01] is deleted, and the address [002] is registered as the address of an indoor unit 4 linked to the group number [02]. Next, either an operation in which the group numbers 70 linked to the address [003] and the subsequent addresses of the indoor unit 4 respectively, are reallocated, for example, to [03] and the subsequent group numbers, or an operation in which the addresses included in address tables are reset is executed.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a group division operation reception process in Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of a layout screen 150 a before group division in Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a group division setting screen 151 in Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a layout screen 150 b after group division in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

(Step S11)

The air conditioner managing console 2 determines whether a division target group is selected. If a division target group is selected, the air conditioner managing console 2 proceeds to step S12. On the other hand, if a division target group is not selected, the air conditioner managing console 2 returns to step S11.

For example, as shown in FIG. 13, if the group icon button 81 which is target of the division is pressed by a physical object 171, for example, a finger or the like, the air conditioner managing console 2 determines that a division target group is selected. Specifically, the check mark 93 is displayed in the group icon button 81 which is selected, and the display color thereof is changed.

(Step S12)

The air conditioner managing console 2 determines whether a function of a division operation is selected. If the function of the division operation is selected, the air conditioner managing console 2 proceeds to step S13. On the other hand, if the function of the division operation is not selected, the air conditioner managing console 2 returns to step S12.

For example, as shown in FIG. 13, if a divide group button 161 is pressed by the physical object 171, the air conditioner managing console 2 determines that the function of the division operation is selected.

(Step S13)

The air conditioner managing console 2 determines whether a dividing number (the number into which a group is divided) is set. If the dividing number is set, the air conditioner managing console 2 proceeds to step S14. On the other hand, if the dividing number is not set, the air conditioner managing console 2 returns to step S13.

For example, as shown in FIG. 14, if a dividing number input button 164 is pressed by the physical object 171, the air conditioner managing console 2 determines that the dividing number is set, and an address input button 165 is displayed in accordance with the set dividing number.

(Step S14)

The air conditioner managing console 2 determines whether an address of a unit of a dividing group is set. If the address of the unit of the dividing group is set, the air conditioner managing console 2 proceeds to step S15. On the other hand, if the address of the unit of the dividing group is not set, the air conditioner managing console 2 returns to step S14.

For example, as shown in FIG. 14, if the address input button 165 is pressed by the physical object 171, the air conditioner managing console 2 determines that the address of the unit of the dividing group is set.

(Step S15)

The air conditioner managing console 2 determines whether all the addresses of the units of the dividing groups are set. If all the addresses of the units of the dividing groups are set, the air conditioner managing console 2 proceeds to step S16. On the other hand, if not all the addresses of the units of the dividing groups are set, the air conditioner managing console 2 returns to step S14.

(Step S16)

The air conditioner managing console 2 determines whether an OK button 167 is selected. If the OK button 167 is selected, the air conditioner managing console 2 ends the process. On the other hand, if the OK button 167 is not selected, the air conditioner managing console 2 returns to step S16.

As a result of the above, as shown in FIG. 15, the result of dividing is displayed as the layout screen 150 b. The layout screen 150 a shown in FIG. 13 and the layout screen 150 b shown in FIG. 15 will be compared to each other. The group [01] is displayed as being divided into the group [01] and the group [02]. The group number 70 of the group [02] is shifted to the group [03], the group number 70 of the group [03] is shifted to the group [04], and the group number 70 of the group [04] is shifted to the group [05], and in the division process, the group numbers 70 are displayed as being reallocated.

Here, as a group setting, the address [001] of the indoor unit 4 is registered in the group [01], the address [002] of the indoor unit 4 is registered in the group [02], the address [003] and the address [004] of the indoor units 4 are registered in the group [03], the address [005] and the address [006] of the indoor units 4 are registered in the group [04], and the address [007] and the address [008] of the indoor units 4 are registered in the group [05].

As shown in FIG. 15, after the execution of the division, in the layout screen 150 b, the size of group icon button 80 is set, for example, on the basis of a size in the case where one indoor unit 4 is registered. Thus, the pixel dimension is changed in accordance with the number of registered units such that when two units are registered, the width is doubled. For example, in FIG. 15, in each of the group [01] and the group [02], the address of the one indoor unit 4 is registered, and thus the display width is half as compared to each of the group icon button 83 to the group icon button 85 of the group [03] to the group [05] in each of which the addresses of the two indoor units 4 are registered.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a group division operation internal process in Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of group setting information at the time of group addition in Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of group setting information at the time of deletion of indoor unit data of a dividing group in Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of group setting information at the time of registration of indoor unit data in Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of group setting information at the time of re-registration of indoor unit data in Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 21 is a diagram showing an example of group setting information at the time of reallocation of group numbers in Embodiment 1 of the present invention.

(Step S31)

The air conditioner managing console 2 determines whether a group number (m) of a division target and the dividing number (n) are acquired. If the group number (m) of the division target and the dividing number (n) are acquired, the air conditioner managing console 2 proceeds to step S32. On the other hand, if the group number (m) of the division target and the dividing number (n) are not acquired, the air conditioner managing console 2 returns to step S31.

(Step S32)

The air conditioner managing console 2 adds n−1 groups between a group (m) and a group (m+1) in accordance with the dividing number which is set.

For example, as shown in FIG. 17, one group is added between the group [01] before the division and the group [02] before the division.

(Step S33)

The air conditioner managing console 2 deletes the addresses of the units that are set in the n−1 dividing groups, from the group (m) which is a division source.

For example, as shown in FIG. 18, in the addresses of the indoor units 4 included in the group [01] before division, the address of the indoor unit 4 that is to be registered in the newly added group [02] is deleted.

(Step S34)

The air conditioner managing console 2 registers the addresses of the units that are set in the n−1 dividing groups.

For example, as shown in FIG. 19, the address of the indoor unit 4 that is set at the time of the setting of group division is registered in the added group [02].

(Step S35)

For the group of m+1+(n−1) and the subsequent groups, the air conditioner managing console 2 shifts the group numbers 70 by the number of the groups that are added as the n−1 dividing groups, registers the addresses of the units, and ends the process.

For example, as shown in FIG. 20, regarding each of the group of m+1+(n−1) and the subsequent groups, the group numbers 70 are shifted by the number of the added groups (n−1), and the addresses of the indoor units 4 are re-registered.

In the above description for step S35, the addresses of the indoor units 4 included in the groups that are not subjected to the division process are re-registered by shifting the group number 70. However, the division process is not particularly limited thereto. For example, as shown in FIG. 21, by shifting the group numbers 70, an operation of reallocating the group numbers 70 may be executed instead of re-registering the addresses of the indoor units 4 that are not the target of the division process. In this case, the air conditioner managing console 2 only needs to change the group number 70 for each of the group of m+1 and the subsequent groups to a number acquired by adding the value of n−1 to the group number 70.

(Advantageous Effects of Embodiment 1)

Due to the above description, in the case of executing the division process, the air conditioner managing console 2 divides the group on the basis of the dividing number and the address of the registration target unit, and displays each group icon button 80 with a size corresponding to the number of the indoor units 4 after re-registration. Thus, since the air conditioner managing console 2 is able to perform resetting of the groups by a simple operation based on the contents of work, the air conditioner managing console 2 is able to execute a group display corresponding to a layout change with less user burden. In addition, since the air conditioner managing console 2 changes the pixel dimension of each group icon button 80 in accordance with the result of dividing, misrecognition by a person in charge of work or the like is able to be prevented.

Due to the above description, in Embodiment 1, the air conditioner managing console 2 which is configured to include the indoor units 4 in the plurality of preset groups and manage the indoor units 4 on a group basis includes the display unit 22 configured to display each group as an icon and the CPU 16 configured to control the display units 22, and in which each group is set so as to be linked to one of preset small spaces into which the air-conditioning target space is divided, and when the CPU 16 receives the change command corresponding to the change of the small spaces, the CPU 16 changes the association of the indoor units 4 associated with the groups in accordance with the change command, and causes the icons to be displayed on the display unit 22 with the display contents based on the changed association of the indoor units 4.

With the above configuration, by performing resetting of the groups by a simple operation based on the contents of work, the air conditioner managing console 2 is able to perform a group display corresponding to a layout change with less user burden.

In Embodiment 1, the group number is assigned to each group. If the change command is a division process for the groups, the CPU 16 divides the association of the indoor units 4 associated with the groups on the basis of the group numbers of the groups and the contents of the division of the group, and causes icons to be displayed with display contents based on the divided association of the indoor units 4.

With the above configuration, by performing the division setting of the groups by a simple operation based on the contents of division, the air conditioner managing console 2 is able to perform a group display corresponding to a layout change occurring with the division with less user burden.

In Embodiment 1, when the CPU 16 displays icons, the pixel dimension of each icon is changed in accordance with the number of the indoor units 4 and the icons is displayed on the display unit 22.

With the above configuration, the air conditioner managing console 2 is able to decrease the pixel dimension of each icon as the number of the registered indoor units 4 increases, and is able to increase the pixel dimension of each icon as the number of the registered indoor units 4 decreases. Thus, the air conditioner managing console 2 allows the user to recognize the rough number of the registered indoor units 4 through the sizes of the icons, and hence allows the user to intuitively understand the contents of the registration.

In Embodiment 1, the air-conditioning system 1 includes the air conditioner managing console 2, the outdoor units 3, and the indoor units 4, and the air conditioner managing console 2 controls the outdoor units 3 and the indoor units 4 on a group basis.

With the above configuration, the air-conditioning system 1 is able to efficiently manage the outdoor units 3 and the indoor units 4 by causing the air conditioner managing console 2 to control the icon corresponding to each group in accordance with an operation by the user.

Embodiment 2 Configuration of Embodiment 2

FIG. 22 is a diagram showing an example of group integration in Embodiment 2 of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 22, for example, the group [01] before integration and the group [02] before integration are integrated to yield the group [01] after integration.

(Operation of Embodiment 2)

FIG. 23 is a diagram schematically illustrating transition of a data structure occurring with group integration in Embodiment 2 of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 23, the address of the indoor unit 4 to be linked to the group number [01] is newly registered, data related to the group number [02] is deleted, and the group number [02] no longer related to the integration is reallocated.

FIG. 24 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a group integration operation reception process in Embodiment 2 of the present invention. FIG. 25 is a diagram showing an example of a layout screen 150 c at the time of start of an integration operation before group integration in Embodiment 2 of the present invention. FIG. 26 is a diagram showing an example of a layout screen 150 d at the time of selection of an integration target before group integration in Embodiment 2 of the present invention. FIG. 27 is a diagram showing an example of a layout screen 150 e after group integration in Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

(Step S51)

The air conditioner managing console 2 determines whether a group to be target of integration (referred herein as “basic group”) is selected. If a basic group is selected, the air conditioner managing console 2 proceeds to Step S52. On the other hand, if a basic group is not selected, the air conditioner managing console 2 returns to Step S51.

For example, as shown in FIG. 25, if the group icon button 81 for the integration target is pressed by the physical object 171, the air conditioner managing console 2 determines that the basic group is selected. In this case, the check mark 93 is displayed in the group icon button 81, and the display color thereof is changed.

(Step S52)

The air conditioner managing console 2 determines whether a function of an integration operation is selected. If the function of the integration operation is selected, the air conditioner managing console 2 proceeds to Step S53. On the other hand, if the function of the integration operation is not selected, the air conditioner managing console 2 returns to Step S52.

For example, as shown in FIG. 25, if the integrate group button 163 is not pressed by the physical object 171, the air conditioner managing console 2 determines that the function of the integration operation is selected.

(Step S53)

The air conditioner managing console 2 determines whether a group to be integrated with the basic group (referred herein as “joining group) is selected. If a joining group is selected, the air conditioner managing console 2 ends the process. On the other hand, if a joining group is not selected, the air conditioner managing console 2 returns Step S53.

For example, as shown in FIG. 26, if the group icon button 82 which is to be integrated is pressed by the physical object 171, the air conditioner managing console 2 determines that the joining group is selected.

As a result of the above operation, as shown in FIG. 27, the group [02] is displayed on the layout screen 150 e as being integrated with the group [01]. The group [02] is the group [03] before the integration, the group [03] is the group [04] before the integration, and the group numbers 70 thereof are displayed in the integration process as being changed. Regarding a group setting, the address [001] to the address [004] of the indoor units 4 are registered in the group [01], the address [005] and the address [006] of the indoor units 4 are registered in the group [02], and the address [007] and the address [008] of the indoor units 4 are registered in the group [03]. Accordingly, after the integration operation, the four indoor units 4 are registered in the group [01], and thus the group icon button 81 is displayed with a doubled width dimension compared with the group [02] or the group [03] in each of which two units are registered.

FIG. 28 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a group integration operation internal process in Embodiment 2 of the present invention. FIG. 29 is a diagram showing an example of group setting information at the time of deletion of indoor unit data of a basic group in Embodiment 2 of the present invention. FIG. 30 is a diagram showing an example of group setting information at the time of registration of indoor unit data of an integrated group in Embodiment 2 of the present invention. FIG. 31 is a diagram showing an example of group setting information at the time of re-registration of the indoor unit data of the integrated group in Embodiment 2 of the present invention. FIG. 32 is a diagram showing an example of group setting information at the time of reallocation of group numbers in Embodiment 2 of the present invention.

(Step S71)

The air conditioner managing console 2 determines whether the group number of the basic group, the group number of the joining group, and the group number not to be subjected to the integration process are acquired. If the group number of the basic group, the group number of the joining group, and the group number not to be subjected to the integration process are acquired, the air conditioner managing console 2 proceeds to step S72. On the other hand, if the group number of the basic group, the group number of the joining group, and the group number not to be subjected to the integration process are not acquired, the air conditioner managing console 2 returns to step S71.

(Step S72)

The air conditioner managing console 2 deletes the address of the unit that is set in the joining group.

For example, as shown in FIG. 29, the addresses of the indoor units 4 that are included in the group [02] are deleted.

(Step S73)

The air conditioner managing console 2 registers the address of the unit that is deleted from the joining group in the basic group.

For example, as shown in FIG. 30, the addresses of the indoor units 4 that are deleted from the group [02] are registered in the group [01].

(Step S74)

For each of the groups not to be subjected to the integration process, the air conditioner managing console 2 shifts the group number 70 by the number of the groups obtained by combining the basic group and the joining group, and registers the addresses of the units.

For example, as shown in FIG. 31, the address [005] and the address [006] of the indoor units 4 and the address [007] and the address [008] of the indoor units 4 are re-registered in the corresponding groups.

In the above description for step S74, the addresses of the indoor units 4 included in the groups that are not subjected to the division process are re-registered by shifting the group number 70. However, the integration process is not particularly limited thereto. For example, as shown in FIG. 32, by shifting the group numbers 70, an operation of reallocating the group numbers 70 may be executed instead of registering the addresses of the indoor units 4 included in the groups that are not subjected to the integration process. In this case, the air conditioner managing console 2 only needs to change the group number 70 for each of the group of m+1 and the subsequent groups to a number acquired by subtracting the number of the groups to be integrated from the group number 70.

(Step S75)

The air conditioner managing console 2 deletes the group in which no unit address is set, and ends the process.

(Advantageous Effects of Embodiment 2)

Due to the above description, in the case of executing the integration process, the air conditioner managing console 2 integrates the groups on the basis of the integration target, the integrated target, and the non-integrated targets, and displays each group icon button 80 with a size corresponding to the number of the indoor units 4 after re-registration. Thus, since the air conditioner managing console 2 is able to perform resetting of the groups by a simple operation based on the contents of work, the air conditioner managing console 2 is able to execute a group display corresponding to a layout change with less user burden. In addition, since the air conditioner managing console 2 changes the pixel dimension of each group icon button 80 in accordance with the result of the integration, misrecognition by a person in charge of work or the like is able to be prevented.

As described above, in Embodiment 2, the group number is assigned to each group. If the change command is an integration process for the groups, the CPU 16 integrates the association of the indoor units 4 associated with the groups on the basis of the group numbers and the contents of the integration of the groups, and causes icons to be displayed with display contents based on the integrated association of the indoor units 4.

With the above configuration, by performing the integration setting of the groups by a simple operation based on the contents of integration, the air conditioner managing console 2 is able to perform a group display corresponding to a layout change occurring with the integration with less user burden.

Embodiment 3 Configuration of Embodiment 3

FIG. 33 is a diagram showing an example of group rearrangement in Embodiment 3 of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 33, the group [01] is rearranged from the head to the end.

(Operation of Embodiment 3)

FIG. 34 is a diagram schematically illustrating transition of a data structure occurring with group rearrangement in Embodiment 3 of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 34, on the premise of a state in which each group number 70 and a display position table including a display position are linked to each other, it is assumed that the display position included in the display position table is reallocated when the groups are rearranged.

FIG. 35 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a group rearrangement operation reception process in Embodiment 3 of the present invention. FIG. 36 is a diagram showing an example of a layout screen 150 f at the time of start of a group rearrangement operation before group rearrangement in Embodiment 3 of the present invention. FIG. 37 is a diagram showing an example of a layout screen 150 g after group rearrangement in Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

(Step S91)

The air conditioner managing console 2 determines whether a group to be rearranged is selected. If a group to be rearranged is selected, the air conditioner managing console 2 proceeds to step S92. On the other hand, if a group to be rearranged is not selected, the air conditioner managing console 2 returns to step S91.

For example, as shown in FIG. 36, if the group icon button 81 for a rearrangement target is pressed by the physical object 171, the air conditioner managing console 2 determines that a group to be rearranged is selected. At this time, the check mark 93 is displayed in the group icon button 85, and the display color thereof is changed.

(Step S92)

The air conditioner managing console 2 determines whether a rearrangement destination group is selected. If a rearrangement destination group is selected, the air conditioner managing console 2 ends the process. On the other hand, if a rearrangement destination group is not selected, the air conditioner managing console 2 returns to step S92.

(Step S93)

For example, as shown in FIG. 36, if the group icon button 83 for an insertion destination is pressed by the physical object 171, the air conditioner managing console 2 determines that a rearrangement destination group is selected.

As a result of the above, as shown in FIG. 37, the group icon button 81 is displayed at the right end which is the tail. Next, after a specified time period has elapsed from completion of the insertion, the check mark 93 becomes non-displayed in the group icon button 81, and the display color thereof returns to the default state.

FIG. 38 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a group rearrangement operation internal process in Embodiment 3 of the present invention. FIG. 39 is a diagram schematically illustrating a procedure of group rearrangement in Embodiment 3 of the present invention.

(Step S101)

The air conditioner managing console 2 removes an insertion source group that is a rearrangement target. For example, this is shown with a label “a first state” in FIG. 39.

(Step S102)

The air conditioner managing console 2 eliminates the space for the removed group icon button 80. For example, this is a shown with a label “second state” in FIG. 39.

(Step S103)

The air conditioner managing console 2 orderly arranges the group icon buttons 80 which are put closely.

(Step S104)

The air conditioner managing console 2 inserts the insertion source group to the position of the insertion destination group. For example, this is shown with a label “a third state” in FIG. 39.

(Step S105)

The air conditioner managing console 2 shifts the groups to the right by the space for the insertion source group. For example, this is shown with a label “a fourth state” in FIG. 39.

(Step S106)

The air conditioner managing console 2 determines whether the right edge of the screen is crossed. If the right edge of the screen is crossed, the air conditioner managing console 2 proceeds to step S107. On the other hand, if the right edge of the screen is not crossed, the air conditioner managing console 2 ends the process.

(Step S107)

The air conditioner managing console 2 displays the group icon button 80 that crosses the right edge of the screen at a lower stage, and ends the process.

FIG. 40 is a diagram showing a detailed example of positions in group rearrangement in Embodiment 3 of the present invention. FIG. 41 is a diagram schematically illustrating an operation for rearranging a group from a current position to a left side in Embodiment 3 of the present invention. FIG. 42 is a diagram schematically illustrating an operation for rearranging a group from a lower stage to an upper stage in Embodiment 3 of the present invention. FIG. 43 is a diagram schematically illustrating an operation for rearranging a group from a current position to a right side in Embodiment 3 of the present invention. FIG. 44 is a diagram schematically illustrating an operation for rearranging a group from an upper stage to a lower stage in Embodiment 3 of the present invention

For example, in an operation corresponding to No. 1 or No. 2, the group icon button 80 for the insertion destination is displayed at a position shifted backward by one as shown in FIG. 41 or FIG. 42. In an operation corresponding to No. 3 or No. 4, the group icon button 80 for the insertion source is displayed at a position shifted frontward by one as shown in FIG. 43 or FIG. 44.

(Advantageous Effects of Embodiment 3)

Due to the above description, merely by receiving a simple operation of the person in charge of work, the air conditioner managing console 2 is able to display the group icon buttons 80 in an orderly state where the group icon buttons 80 are automatically rearranged.

As described above, in Embodiment 3, the group number is assigned to each group. If the change command is a rearrangement process for the groups, the CPU 16 rearranges the association of the indoor units 4 to the groups, on the basis of the group numbers and the contents of the rearrangement of the groups, and causes icons to be displayed with display contents based on the rearranged association of the indoor units 4.

With the above configuration, by performing the rearrangement setting of the groups by a simple operation based on the contents of rearrangement, the air conditioner managing console 2 is able to perform a group display corresponding to a layout change occurring with the rearrangement, with less user burden.

Embodiment 4 Configuration of Embodiment 4

FIG. 45 is a diagram showing an example of an association between a layout screen 150 h and screen display position data in Embodiment 4 of the present invention. In FIG. 45, a setting in which the group icon buttons 80 are displayed in two rows and four columns is shown. For example, as display position information, [U1], [U2], [U3], and [U4] are allocated in order from left at the upper stage side, and [D1], [D2], [D3], and [D4] are allocated in order from left at the lower stage side.

(Operation of Embodiment 4)

FIG. 46 is a diagram showing an example of the screen display position data in Embodiment 4 of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 46, the group number data, the registered unit data, and the display position data are linked to each other.

FIG. 47 is a diagram showing an example of a communication command for display position designation in Embodiment 4 of the present invention. For example, the display position data is included in a communication command in order to keep the same arrangement sequence among each air conditioner managing console 2 after rearrangement. Specifically, a communication command including the address of a data transmission destination and display position data of a screen for each group is transmitted and received between the air conditioner managing consoles 2, so that screen display information is shared by the air conditioner managing consoles 2, and the air conditioner managing consoles 2 are allowed to be synchronized with each other for screen display position.

FIG. 48 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a communication process in Embodiment 4 of the present invention.

(Host Apparatus Screen Display Synchronization Process)

(Step S121)

The air conditioner managing console 2 a determines whether group rearrangement is executed. If group rearrangement is executed, the air conditioner managing console 2 a proceeds to step S122. On the other hand, if group rearrangement is not executed, the air conditioner managing console 2 a returns to step S121.

(Step S122)

The air conditioner managing console 2 a determines whether the other air conditioner managing console 2 b is present within the same network. If the other air conditioner managing console 2 b is present within the same network, the air conditioner managing console 2 a proceeds to step S123. On the other hand, if the other air conditioner managing console 2 b is not present within the same network, the air conditioner managing console 2 a ends the process.

(Step S123)

The air conditioner managing console 2 a transmits the display position data to the other air conditioner managing console 2 b.

(Subordinate Apparatus Screen Display Synchronization Process)

(Step S141)

The air conditioner managing console 2 b determines whether the display position data is received. If display position data is received, the air conditioner managing console 2 b proceeds to step S142. On the other hand, if the display position data is not received, the air conditioner managing console 2 b returns to step S141.

(Step S142)

The air conditioner managing console 2 b rearranges the groups on the basis of the display position data.

(Step S143)

The air conditioner managing console 2 b displays the groups on the basis of the result of the rearrangement, and ends the process.

(Advantageous Effects of Embodiment 4)

Due to the above description, since the air conditioner managing consoles 2 are synchronized with each other for the display position of group icon buttons 80, the air-conditioning system 1 is able to perform a group display corresponding to a layout change on each air conditioner managing console 2 included in the same network.

As described above, in Embodiment 4, the transmitting/receiving circuit 13 that transmits and receives various signals is further included, and the CPU 16 displays icons on the display unit 22 in an arrangement sequence corresponding to the indoor units 4 included in the groups. If various signals include an arrangement sequence, the arrangement sequence is transmitted via the transmitting/receiving circuit 13.

In Embodiment 4, the air-conditioning system 1 includes a plurality of the air conditioner managing consoles 2, each air conditioner managing console 2 transmits and receives a management signal to and from each other, and the management signal includes the display position of each icon.

With the above configuration, the air-conditioning system 1 is able to perform a group display corresponding to a layout change on each air conditioner managing console 2 included in the same network.

Embodiment 5 Outline of Embodiment 5

In Embodiment 5, the point will be described in which the air conditioner managing console 2 controls the above-described monitoring screen 31 to the display contents of a later-described monitoring screen 32, and, for example, controls switching of presence/absence of display of the group numbers 70.

(Operation of Embodiment 5)

FIG. 49 is a diagram showing an example of a group number display presence/absence setting screen in Embodiment 5 of the present invention.

As described above, in the case where group rearrangement is executed, a state is acquired in which the group numbers 70 are not in either ascending order or descending order, and thus the group icon button 81 to the group icon button 85 are not displayed in the order of group numbers. Here, the case is assumed where the user confirms the above-described monitoring screen 31 after the execution of group rearrangement. In the case of such an assumption, since the group icon button 81 to the group icon button 85 are not displayed in the order of group numbers, the user may make a false operation or misrecognition. That is, the monitoring screen 31 after group rearrangement can be a cause for a false operation and misrecognition by the user. Thus, in the case where group rearrangement is executed, the air conditioner managing console 2 causes the user to make setting of presence/absence of display of the group numbers 70.

FIG. 50 is a diagram showing an example of the monitoring screen 32 at the time of setting absence of group number display in Embodiment 5 of the present invention. In each of the group icon button 81 to the group icon button 85, the group number 70 is not displayed.

For example, if the user selects a “perform button 168”, the group numbers 70 are displayed as in the above-described monitoring screen 31. On the other hand, if the user selects a “not perform button 169”, the group numbers 70 are not displayed in the group icon button 81 to the group icon button 85 as in the monitoring screen 32 shown in FIG. 50, unlike the above-described monitoring screen 31. Such setting contents may be stored, for example, in the nonvolatile memory 15.

(Advantageous Effects of Embodiment 5)

Due to the above description, the air conditioner managing console 2 is able to set the group numbers to be non-displayed, after a layout change, and thus is able to prevent a false operation and misrecognition by the user even in the case of a group display corresponding to a layout change.

As described above, in Embodiment 5, if the CPU 16 receives a display control signal concerning presence/absence of display of the group numbers, the CPU 16 controls whether to include the group numbers in the display contents of the icons in accordance with the display control signal.

With the above configuration, the air conditioner managing console 2 is able to prevent a false operation and misrecognition by the user even in the case of a group display corresponding to a layout change. 

1-9. (canceled)
 10. An air conditioner managing console being configured to manage a plurality of indoor units on a group basis, each group including at least one of the indoor units, the air conditioner managing console comprising: a display unit operable to display a monitoring screen in which a plurality of icons each representing the group are arranged; and a controller configured to determine that one of the icons displayed on the monitoring screen is selected, and when determining that an other icon different from the one of the icons is selected subsequent to selecting the one icon, display the one icon at a position at which the other icon is displayed.
 11. The air conditioner managing console of claim 10, wherein the controller is configured to when determining that the other icon different from the one of the icons is selected, display the one icon at the position at which the other icon is displayed and display the other icon at a position at which an adjacent icon of the other icon is displayed.
 12. The air conditioner managing console of claim 10, wherein the controller is configured to when determining that the one of the icons displayed on the monitoring screen is selected, change a display color of the one icon.
 13. The air conditioner managing console of claim 10, wherein the controller is configured to when determining that the one of the icons displayed on the monitoring screen is selected, delete the one icon from the monitoring screen.
 14. The air conditioner managing console of claim 10, wherein an unique group number is assigned to each of the groups, and the group number is displayed on each of the icons.
 15. The air conditioner managing console of claim 14, wherein a button indicating group division is displayed on the monitoring screen, and the controller is configured to when determining that one of the icons is selected subsequent to pressing the button, display a change screen operable to change the at least one of the indoor units in the group represented by the one icon, and when performing an operation of dividing a part of the indoor units in the group into a new group on the change screen, reallocate the group number of each of the groups represented by an unselected icon.
 16. The air conditioner managing console of claim 14, wherein a button indicating group integration is displayed on the monitoring screen, and the controller is configured to when determining that one of the icons is selected subsequent to pressing the button, display a change screen operable to change the at least one of the indoor units in the group represented by the one icon, and when performing an operation of integrating each of the indoor units in the group into an other existing group on the change screen, reallocate the group number of each of the groups represented by an unselected icon. 